The Colombo Crime Division (CCD) and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) have launched investigations into the deadly clash at the Negombo Prison, police said.

The investigations have been launched after obtaining a court order.

Police said investigations will examine the circumstances surrounding the violence within the prison premises and identify those responsible.

Meanwhile, the death toll from the violent clashes within the Negombo Prison rose to 26, according to the Minister of Justice, Harshana Nanayakkara.

The Justice Minister noted that the deceased include seven prison officers and 19 inmates.

He added that 23 prison officers and 54 inmates are currently receiving treatment in hospital.

Minister Nanayakkara also said that CCTV systems and a body scanner at the prison were completely destroyed during the unrest.

Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara said that disrupting prison operations appeared to be the primary objective of inmates involved in the violent clash at the Negombo Prison.

Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara today visited the Negombo Prison in the aftermath of the violent clashes within the premises.

Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara also expressed deep shock and sorrow over the violent clash at the Negombo Prison, stating he accepts responsibility for the incident as it occurred within an institution under his purview.

Speaking to media, the Justice Minister said the unrest has now been brought under control, but stressed that the loss of any life could not be justified and steps must be taken to prevent a recurrence.

He said the clash was between two organised groups within the prison, adding that prison officials had acted to restore order during the incident.